10th Anniversary Celebration throughout 2017, reduced prices and exciting trips! Join us in Poland in 2017 and let’s celebrate together!

Poland Culinary Vacations Celebrates 10th Anniversary in 2017

January 2017 will mark 10 YEARS since the launch of Poland Culinary Vacations. It’s been an exciting journey from the very beginning. The most exciting and rewarding part has been meeting and hosting our guests in Poland and knowing that they’re getting the most intimate, in-depth cultural and culinary travel experience while on their Poland Culinary Vacations!

EAT!Vancouver Festival – promoting Poland Culinary Vacations

Throughout 2017 travel season, we will be offering SPECIAL, REDUCED PRICES on all 2017 trips as part of our 10th Anniversary Celebration. We’re taking $500 OFF PER PERSON and lifting the SINGLE SUPPLEMENT! So, if you’ve always wanted to join us on one of our trips, we hope that you’ll join us in 2017 and take advantage of the reduced prices!

Our guests enjoying great food, drink and company while in Poland

Please visit our website: www.PolandCulinaryVacations.com for all available 2017 dates and detailed trip itineraries. See you in beautiful and “delicious” Poland in 2017!

Heading to Poland this September? Are you looking to experience local food traditions and taste delectable artisan foods? If your answer is YES, then vacationing in Poland in September, during harvest season, is the best time to enjoy delicious food and drink. Here are numerous events planned around Poland in September celebrating food during harvest season:

If you’re a foodie and always on the lookout for new food experiences, there isn’t a better time to visit Poland than in August and/or September. Both months present unique and “delicious” culinary and cultural activities in various regions of Poland. Most focus on regional Polish foods and products but some mix international flavors making them even more desirable to attend.

Annual PIEROGI FESTIVAL in Krakow, Poland

Here are some festivals not to be missed where local and international flavors and culture are on full display every August and September in Poland:

The most recent, June 2016 episode of Food Travel Talk TV was about Food Travel in Poland. The online program was moderated by Erik Wolf, Executive Director of World Food Travel Association based in Portland, Oregon. Erik recently visited Poland for the first time as a guest speaker at a special event devoted to the future of Food Tourism in Poland hosted by the University of Poznan. I am happy to report that he thoroughly enjoyed Poland and plans to visit again soon!

Watch and learn about all the exciting and “delicious” culinary happenings in Poland as Erik interviews me, Sarna Rose, Owner of Poland Culinary Vacations and Kasia Janiszewska, Association’s ambassador in Poland based in Olsztyn in the Mazuria region of Poland – north-east – also called “The Land of a Thousand Lakes.”

In the process of researching our newest trip; “A SPA & Wine Vacation in Southern Poland & Krakow”, which launched back in 2015, we’ve discovered exciting developments on both the Malopolska (Lesser Poland) and Podkarpacka (Subcarpathian) Wine Trails! In this post, we’ll focus on Malopolska Wine Trail and next time we’ll introduce you to Podkarpacka Wine Trail.

Malopolska Wine Trail – Source: www.MalopolskiSzlakWinny.pl

For some time now, more and more wineries have been cropping up in Malopolska region and Malpolskie wines are gaining interest among wine critics and the public and have been winning medals at International Wine Contests. There are over 100 wineries in the region and growing. The 15 listed on the map above, already have or are very close, in obtaining necessary permits to sell their wines commercially.

Winnica Srebrna Gora – Malopolska Wine TrailFot. Lukasz Sakiewicz

We are very excited about the ability to visit the select few Malopolskie wineries, taste their wines on-site; often paired with delicious regional food and meet the owners of these small and in most cases, family owned vineyards. The owners are very passionate and work very hard to bring us great tasting wines and shower us with their Polish hospitality!

More information about Malopolski Szlak Winny – Malopolska Wine Trail can be found on the dedicated website: Malopolski Szlak Winny – Malopolska Wine Trail Detailed information about viniculture in Malopolska is described, the soil and climate conditions, the variety of grapes grown and the style and character of wines produced. (The site is in Polish, so please use Translate function to get the text in your desired language).

A total of 52 restaurants have been recognized by the Michelin Guide for 2016 in Poland: 28 (up 4 on 2015) in Warsaw and 24 (up 3 on 2015) in Cracow. Atelier Amaro restaurant in Warsaw specializing in seasonal Polish cuisine held on to it’s one-star for the third year! A new restaurant, Senses, also based in Warsaw received one-start this year making it the second restaurant in the country to hold the esteemed distinction. Senses restaurant describes itself as “combining modern cooking techniques with classic Polish and international traditions.”

Chef at Belvedere restaurant in Warsaw, Poland.

The rest received anywhere from one “fork and spoon” designation to four; two Warsaw restaurants received Bib Gourmand mark and a NEW for 2016, Zazie restaurant in Cracow also received Bib Gourmand mark by offering “exceptional good food at moderate prices”.

Excited to point out that four restaurants on Poland Culinary Vacations itineraries are recommended in the 2016 Michelin Guide: Ale Gloria, U Fukiera, Belvedere and U Kucharzy in Warsaw.

The newly opened European Solidarity Center in Gdansk and Emigration Museum in Gdynia, Poland have been added to our sightseeing itinerary during“Coastal Cooking in Pomerania and Gdansk” cultural and culinary vacation in northern Poland, on the Baltic Sea coast.

Emigration Museum in Gdynia, Poland

European Solidarity Center in Gdansk, Poland

View Power Point presentation about both attractions and make sure you visit these special places on your next vacation to Gdansk and Gdynia, Poland.

Warsaw, Poland’s capital city, located at the heart of Europe, is quickly staking claim as a visitors hot spot. What once was a hidden gem is now boasting 15 million tourists each year. Conveniently located just 300 kilometers from Krakow, Warsaw boasts an array of cultural and historical offerings, a unique atmosphere, and some of the most delectable food that can be found.

Old Town Warsaw, Poland

Founded in the fourteenth century, Warsaw was a late arrival on Poland’s map. It soon became a political and industrial hub, but was literally destroyed during World War ll. Warsaw’s rebirth after its destruction, is a tribute to the dedication of its people. The reconstruction of the historic center was finally complete in 1962.

When visiting the city, a walk around Old Town and a visit to the Historical Museum of Warsaw will give you a well rounded outline of the city’s history.

Warsaw mermaid – the symbol of Warsaw

Exploring Warsaw is a delight for the senses. The museums, art galleries, theatres and historical architecture will fulfill your cultural desires. The annual street festivals and many musical events will fill your itinerary with memorable experiences to take part in.

During the month of July, the annual Musical Gardens Festival is held in the Courtyard of the Warsaw Castle. The event includes art, Polish culture and dance, opera and ballet. Warsaw’s International Street Arts Festival is yet another annual event, which transforms Warsaw’s streets, parks and Old Towne Market Square into a stage for actors, dancers, musicians and artists.

If you are looking for an antique bazaar where authentic treasures abound, you may want to check out the Saturday and Sunday morning Kolo Bazaar on the corner of Obozowa and Ksiecia Janusza in Warsaw’s Wola district.

Chef at Belvedere restaurant in Warsaw at Sunday brunch

One of the best ways to become acquainted with an area is by partaking in its regional dishes, and Warsaw is no different. There are numerous authentic restaurants, where the combination of food and atmosphere will leave you blissfully satisfied.

In addition to Poland’s traditional cuisine, international restaurants abound. Flavors from France, Germany, Russia and Italy are available in Warsaw’s restaurants. There are also the many milk bars, which are characteristic to Poland, as well as the Vietnamese bars that are popular with Warsaw residents.

Wroclaw, the capital of Lower Silesia, is located in south-western Poland. Sometimes referred to as the Venice of Poland because of its numerous waterways, Wroclaw is uniquely situated on twelve islands interconnected by over one hundred bridges. A multicultural metropolis rich in history and charm has caused many to consider the area to be one of Eastern Europe’s most beautiful cities.

Beautiful Wroclaw Market Square

Wroclaw is one of the oldest cities in Poland, with history dating back all the way to the year 1000. After suffering a substantial damage in 1945 as a result of World War II, Wroclaw was rebuild to become the breathtaking city it is today. Its rich history plays a large role in the cultural diversity seen throughout the area today.

Wroclaw gnome

When it comes to things to do in Wroclaw, there certainly is no shortage. While in Wroclaw, visitors can experience the flavors of the world, with excellent cuisine from Poland, Russia, Italy, France, and Germany. The city is sure to please beer lovers as well, since many bars and pubs in the area serve Polish beer alongside independently brewed beers.

The Market Square in Wroclaw offers some of the most wonderful restaurants and bars of the city. Many of the unique and architecturally beautiful hotels in the area are well known specifically for their restaurants and the chefs who create their masterpieces.

Outdoor dining on Wroclaw Market Square

In September there are two exciting events that attract thousands of people every year. Wroclaw’s Kitchens and the World Cookery Book Fair are both amazing culinary festivals that welcome everyone to participate.
Home to Hala Ludowa, or the Centennial Hall, one of the UNESCO World Heritage sites, Wroclaw offers an easy way to combine both culinary and cultural wonder so visitors can indulge in amazing food and architectural wonders at the same time.

Waterways of Wroclaw, Poland

A Japanese Garden filled with lush greenery also resides in the city. Set up in 1913 by count Fritz von Hochberg, it is a place of beauty that is well worth the visit. Wroclaw is also home to the Botanical Garden located in the oldest district of the city. Over 7,000 different plant species are featured there.
Nine museums, several theaters and music centers will satisfy your craving for history and culture. In fact, for 2016 Wroclaw has been designated the European Capital of Culture! Wroclaw is definitely a city where one will never be left looking for something to do.

To view 2016 Poland Culinary Vacation to Wroclaw which also includes visit to the annual Polish Pottery Festival in Boleslawiec Click here

Krakow was Poland’s capital city until the end of the sixteenth century when Warsaw was deemed the country’s new capital. Krakow’s rich cultural history is on display in Gothic and Baroque architecture visible at every turn. Art galleries, museums, and theatres abound. Its close proximity to neighboring capitals and access to art and entertainment make it Central Europe’s cultural heart. In fact, in 1978, Krakow’s Old Town locals know as the Stare Miasto was inscribed as a World Heritage site by the UN’s Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).

Beautiful UNESCO Krakow Market Square

Krakow balances an intellectually and visually stimulating environment with a vibrant nightlife, attributable in large measure to the thousands of students and teachers who flock to its 18 universities. Known all over Europe for its trendy spots, hidden hangouts, and sumptuous restaurants, Stare Miasto has the highest density of bars and pubs of any World Heritage Site. Political and historical debate over a couple of glasses of Zywiec, Zubr, or Tyskie, polskie piwo (Polish beer) served in these ubiquitous pubs and cafes might just be the citizenry’s favorite pastime.
Krakow’s visitors can best appreciate Poland’s heart and soul by opening its kitchen door and sampling its cookery. Its easy to see how Krakow earned a well-deserved reputation as Poland’s food capital. Residents earnestly embrace every occasion with fantastic cooking. Since 2004 when Poland joined the European Union, international cuisine offerings have steadily increased in Krakow along with the number of foreigners and tourists. Dining rooms in its one-of-a-kind hotels offer outstanding cuisine.

Polish oscypek cheese available grilled at a festival in Krakow

Can you imagine eating at a restaurant in business passing on the Polish passion for food to countless generations for nearly seven centuries? Krakow has one. Frequent weekend-long outdoor food festivals highlighting food producers and restaurateurs’ favorite dishes delight locals and visitors alike. May’s Soup Festival and the mid-August Pierogi Fest have achieved great popularity. With free samples, displays, markets, cooking contests, joyful Polish music and other entertainment, these exceptional festivals add to the bustling city’s unique charm. Poland Culinary Vacations can plan a travel itinerary that combines festival outings with other visits to Malopolska (Lesser Poland) region UNESCO world heritage sites.

Gourmet pierogi made at the Culinary Studio in Krakow

Poland Culinary Vacations is Poland’s premier choice for custom-tailored, personally guided gastronomic tours. From Wesele’s restaurant regional and traditional offerings to Trzy Rybki innovative nouvelle preparations. Poland Culinary Vacations is your best introduction to this country’s varied culture and marvelous cuisine. PCV also lends a hand to its clients in registering for one-day Polish cooking classes. Participating in a cooking course at Krakow’s Culinary Studio is an excellent way to recapture the smells and tastes of Poland in your own home.